Abbott Endorses Sheets and Hardaway in Key Texas Races

Governor emphasizes need for continued Republican leadership in economy and education

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Governor Greg Abbott has endorsed Nate Sheets for Texas Agriculture Commissioner and Jay Hardaway for the 11th Congressional District during a campaign stop in Abilene. Abbott and Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock highlighted the importance of sustained Republican leadership to maintain Texas' strong economy and improve its education system.

Why it matters

Abbott's endorsements are seen as crucial for the Republican candidates as they gear up for the upcoming primary elections. The agriculture commissioner and 11th Congressional District races are key battlegrounds that could impact the balance of power in the state.

The details

Sheets is running for the position of Texas Agriculture Commissioner, which oversees the agricultural industry, consumer protection, and rural economic programs. Hardaway is competing for the Republican nomination for the 11th Congressional District, a seat currently held by U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington, who is not seeking re-election. Comptroller Kelly Hancock highlighted Texas' strong economy and the need to maintain Republican leadership to continue that success and improve the state's education system.

  • The endorsements were made during a campaign stop in Abilene on February 25, 2026.
  • The primary elections are scheduled for March 2026.

The players

Greg Abbott

The Governor of Texas who is endorsing the Republican candidates.

Nate Sheets

The Republican candidate for Texas Agriculture Commissioner.

Jay Hardaway

The Republican candidate for Texas' 11th Congressional District.

Jodey Arrington

The current U.S. Representative for Texas' 11th Congressional District, who is not seeking re-election.

Kelly Hancock

The Texas Comptroller who highlighted the state's economic achievements and the importance of sustained Republican leadership.

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What they’re saying

“When you live in Texas, you experience one of the greatest economies in the nation, which means one of the best in the world. This didn't happen by accident; it was your elected officials, with Governor Abbott leading the way.”

— Kelly Hancock, Texas Comptroller (myfoxzone.com)

“We need to ensure that we maintain our leadership in the economy and focus on becoming a future leader in education. We have a solid plan for achieving that.”

— Kelly Hancock, Texas Comptroller (myfoxzone.com)

What’s next

The primary elections are scheduled for March 2026, and the endorsed candidates will be competing for the Republican nominations in their respective races.

The takeaway

Governor Abbott's endorsements of Nate Sheets and Jay Hardaway underscore the importance of the upcoming primary elections in Texas, where the Republican Party is seeking to maintain its grip on key statewide and congressional positions. The focus on the state's economic success and the need to improve education highlights the GOP's priorities in the lead-up to the primaries.